Rocky Mount, N.C. - The Intercollegiate Tennis Association has released its preseason rankings that officially wrap up the fall season and turn focus to spring competition. North Carolina Wesleyan was tabbed #12 in the national poll, while the Bishops boasted a #2 regional ranking.
Much of the attention Wesleyan is getting is a direct reflection of a stellar fall season. Led by senior Alexey Rumyantsev and sophomore Robert Kjellberg, the Bishops turned in a 33-18 singles mark and 14-7 doubles record versus elite competition. Rumyantsev and Kjellberg, in fact, were tabbed the #1 doubles tandem in the Atlantic South and the #3 duo in the nation after a 3rd-place finish at last month's ITA Small College National Championships.
Additionally, Kjellberg is ranked 6th in the region and 24th nationally in singles competition. He will lead his Bishops into the spring season with high expectations of capturing the program's fourth straight USA South title and NCAA tournament berth.